Intriguing Ha-Seong Kim could be heading to the majors

The Kiwoom Heroes are set to post infielder Ha-Seong Kim this offseason, adding the intriguing infielder to the offseason player pool.

Ha-Seong Kim had stated in the past that he desired to head to Major League Baseball. His desire to be posted had a major obstacle however – he needed to have seven years of experience, or the equivalent, in the Korean Baseball Organization. That mark has been reached this season.

And so, the Kiwoom Heroes are set to honor Kim’s request, making the 25 year old infielder available this offseason.

While offensive numbers in the KBO have been viewed with some skepticism in the past, Kim still intrigues. Despite changes to the ball to limit offense, he managed to hit a career best 38 doubles while stealing 33 bases in his 139 games in 2019, his .880 OPS just a shade below his personal best mark.

Kim improved upon those marks this season. In his 554 plate appearances for the Heroes, he has produced a .304/.396/.521 batting line, hitting 20 doubles and 27 homers. He has also stolen 21 bases, having been caught just once. This continues a career trend, as Kim has averaged over 20 homers and 20 steals in his five full seasons in the KBO.

Obviously, the big question is whether or not Kim can continue that type of production in the majors. Players that have come over from the KBO have historically not fared as well as those coming from Japan, their gaudy offensive numbers unable to translate to the majors.

But there is hope that he can buck that trend. Kim is a player that would have been considered a top 100 prospect had he been eligible, a solid all around player even if he does not stand out in a particular area. He is considered to be an above average hitter with decent pop, although his plus speed will likely be his best offensive attribute in the majors. His instincts on the diamond, athleticism, and respectable arm should help him stick at short, where he becomes an even more interesting prospect.

Kim is not just a shortstop. He has also spent time at third in the KBO, with 85 games at the hot corner over the past two seasons, in addition to limited time at second. While he is not likely to play much at third in the majors, his defensive versatility and offensive profile would make him an intriguing option for any team.

Ha-Seong Kim is set to get his wish and be posted by the Kiwoom Heroes. Suddenly, an intriguing bat will be available for anyone to bid upon.